Renault thanks Maldonado for contribution

Renault has paid tribute to the outgoing Pastor Maldonado and thanked him for his service to the Enstone operation across the past two years.

Maldonado competed for Lotus in 2014 and 2015 and had been initially retained by Renault when it acquired the outfit, though was dropped in favour of Kevin Magnussen, ostensibly due to sponsorship problems.

Maldonado, who previously spent three years with Williams, scored 29 points for Lotus and placed 14th overall in last year's championship, as the team finished sixth in the standings.

"After two years of loyal service, we would like to say a heartfelt goodbye and thank you to Pastor Maldonado," Renault said on social media.

"While his on track performance has been discussed plenty by fans and pundits alike, we enjoyed working with a bright, friendly, extremely funny guy who got on brilliantly with everyone in the team.

"He pushed tirelessly to get the maximum out of his car. Thank you very much for two years of fun. We will miss you!"